Two people have died in Texas as relentless flash floods swept cars and flooded roads and authorities warned the worst is not over.
Emergency workers have been carrying out a number of rescue efforts as heavy rainfall rips through parts of the state and officials advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
The victims were caught in rapidly rising floodwater after heavy downpours triggered dangerous flash flooding across low-lying areas, police said. Emergency crews were on the scene to see stranded motorists, submerged vehicles and flooded neighborhoods.
Flash flood warnings are being issued in several counties as well and further heavy rainfall is expected to come across in the future, which could only compound the already dire situation. Weather experts say saturated ground conditions mean even moderate rainfall can quickly lead to life-threatening flooding.
There are also some highways and local roads closed as water levels rose above the safe driving limits. Most flood deaths, officials say, occur when people drive through flooded roadways. They are still reminding people of the slogan, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” as even a tiny amount of moving water can carry away a car.
Emergency management agencies across the region remain on high alert as rain bands are spreading through the Texas region. Local government agencies have set up temporary shelters to house people in flood-prone communities and first responders are monitoring rivers, creeks and drainage systems for rapid rises.
Some places could get another few inches of rain over the next 24 to 48 hours. Urban areas are particularly sensitive because drainage systems can quickly become overwhelmed in a period of heavy rainfall, said the National Weather Service. Rural areas are also at risk, as overflowing rivers threaten homes, farmland and transportation arteries.
At least 2 dead as catastrophic flash flooding hits south central Texas, governor says; nearly 150 rescued. pic.twitter.com/5Yy46Jg5np
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Power outages are reported in several areas affected by strong winds and flooded electrical infrastructure. Utility crews are working to restore service where conditions allow, although ongoing rainfall may delay repair efforts.
Texas has suffered a number of devastating flood events in recent years and the magnitude of extreme weather is only becoming larger. Higher atmospheric temperatures are associated with increased moisture in the atmosphere and that can lead to more rainfall events, but climate change is not the only cause of this.
State officials have advised residents to stay informed of weather alerts, stay off flooded roads, put up emergency kits and follow evacuation orders if there is an evacuation order in place. Schools and local offices in some flood-affected districts have been temporarily closed as a safety precaution.
Emergency workers continue searching for and saving people from the weather. Some of the rain is more imminent than other states and authorities are concerned that flood conditions can get worse before they get better.
Residents living near rivers and flood-prone areas are told to remain vigilant, keep track of the weather and keep an eye out for official warnings and move to higher ground if floodwater levels rise, the authorities say. Some may have to move to higher ground, and the public should be ready to do the same if the floodwaters do.
